This site is based on my daily practice of traditional Shotokan Karate-Do here in Oita City, Japan. More than anything else, unlike the majority of other karate-do websites, this page is primarily dedicated to training itself; that is, Karate-Do as a vehicle for holistic development.

Wednesday, 23 December 2009

Mizuho & me in JAF Magazine

I've back dated this post as I failed to publish it (so please disregard the date of publication). Anyway to make things clear for my English readers I've uploaded this a day after the `Frosty the Snowman' article in 2009 (even though Mizuho & I were interviewed in 2010). For those who can read Japanese, just click on the photos and use the auto-magnifying glass to read the JAF-Japan Auto Federation article. Actually it's a pretty funny interview! In case you don't know, JAFMate is literally read by millions of car owners across Japan, so I can't begin to tell you how many calls I got about being in it!!! More hilarious was when teaching seminars, during the break some people came up and said things like "We saw your karate story in JAF Magazine Andre Sensei. Very good, but next time use chains!"______

About Me

My name is Andre Bertel. I am a New Zealand born karateka who lives in Oita City (Oita Prefecture, Japan). I've practiced the Shotokan style for many years, spending much time here in Japan, seeking to improve my skills and understanding of authentic Karate-Do. I was a student of the late Asai Tetsuhiko Sensei. While I may never reach a high level in Karate-Do, I endeavour to do my best via daily training. Furthermore, I believe in promoting the true 'traditional Budo Karate' of Japan, which has and continues to be seriously undermined worldwide: especially in the West.
I am in deep gratitude for the wonderful friendships I have made worldwide, as an instructor, and as an ongoing student of Karate-Do. Overall, Karate-Do has been my way of life, and is something I live everyday.